Karnataka at the Forefront of India's Clean Energy Revolution
Key Ideas
- Karnataka and Maharashtra rank second in green hydrogen production potential in India, with 5MTPA each.
- Gujarat leads with an estimated potential of 8.8MTPA green hydrogen production at a cost lower than USD 3.5/kg.
- The study emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to address challenges in achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
- The paper highlights the key role of renewable energy, including solar, wind, and green hydrogen, in India's climate goals.
Karnataka is poised to play a significant role in India's transition towards low-cost clean energy, particularly in the realm of green hydrogen production. A recent study by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) highlights Karnataka and Maharashtra as the second-ranking states in green hydrogen potential after Gujarat. Green hydrogen, a clean energy source that emits only water vapour, is seen as a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels. The study underscores that Karnataka and Maharashtra have the capacity to produce 5 Million Tonnes per Annum (MTPA) of green hydrogen each. The research suggests that advancements in technology and renewable energy (RE) systems could lead to a cost-effective production of green hydrogen in these states. India's renewable energy potential is vast, with over 24,000GW, but significant challenges need to be addressed to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. The study advocates for strategic land use, improved water management, and robust power grid infrastructure to scale up technologies like solar, wind, and green hydrogen. While India currently has 150GW of installed RE capacity, reaching the 7,000GW mark for net-zero emissions will require a comprehensive approach. The research warns that beyond 1,500GW, challenges may intensify, necessitating a concerted effort to overcome obstacles and meet climate targets.